Healthy gums and teeth are very important to children’s overall health. With February being National Children’s Dental Health Month, Louisiana Healthcare Connections is reminding the public about dental health and promoting available fluoride varnish treatments that may contribute to a child’s dental health.
Fluoride varnish is a protective coating doctor’s paint onto a child’s teeth. It takes less than two minutes to apply and dries almost instantly. The coating helps make the outer layer of their tooth enamel harder and stronger. As a result, the child is less likely to get cavities and experiencing tooth decay.
As a child’s teeth start coming in, it is recommended that children receive fluoride varnish treatments. Pediatricians are trained to apply fluoride varnish because many young children do not see or have access to a dentist until they are older. So, either a dentist or doctor can provide fluoride varnish treatments.
“As part of our ongoing commitment to provide for the full spectrum of healthcare needs and care for Louisiana families, we are recommending parents take the time to talk with their physicians about dental health for their children,” stated Stewart Gordon, MD, chief medical officer for Louisiana Healthcare Connections.
All Medicaid recipients, including those with Louisiana Healthcare Connections, are covered for this service at no cost. Louisiana Healthcare Connections has provided additional information regarding this topic on their website at www.louisianahealthconnect.com/fluoride-varnish.